[Hiatal hernia of the esophagus and GERD as a cause of hemorrhage]

Abstract

Bleeding complications arise in 1/4 of patients with hiatal hernia and GERD, and are the cause in 10% of all acute and 1/3 of chronic foregut bleedings. Most common bleeding disorders directly related to hiatal hernia and GERD are: hiatal hernia ulcers, erosive esophagitis, esophageal ulcers, peptic strictures and Barrett esophagus. The aim of this review article is to point out a significance of proper diagnosis and treatment for conditions bonded with hiatal hernia and GERD which can lead to severe esophageal bleedings. Detailed etiology, incidence, diagnostic algorithm and treatment of Cameron lesions, prolapse gastropathy, erosive esophagitis, peptic esophageal ulcers and postoperative complications related to hiatal hernia and GERD are presented in this article.